Shloka 6.7.9

राक्षसपरिषद्वाक्यम् — Counsel of the Rakshasa Court to Ravana

Devanagari script

मयेनदानवेन्द्रेणत्वद्भयात्सख्यमिच्छता ।दुहितातवभार्यार्थेदत्ताराक्षसपुङ्गव ।।।।

Transliteration

mayena dānavendreṇa tvadbhayāt sakhyam icchatā | duhitā tava bhāryārthe dattā rākṣasapuṅgava ||

Translation

O foremost of Rākṣasas! Maya, lord of the Dānavas, seeking alliance out of fear of you, gave his daughter to you as a wife.

Context

"Maya, the ruler of Danavas has given his daughter (Mandodari) to you as a wife out of fear of you, O leader of Rakshasas!"

Characters & Entities

• Maya (Dānava-king)
• Dānavas
• Rākṣasas
• Mandodarī (implied as Maya’s daughter in tradition)

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

It underscores how fear-driven alliances distort Dharma: relationships formed under coercion lack the moral foundation of consent, truthfulness (satya), and mutual righteousness.

What is the narrative situation?

The verse situates Rāvaṇa’s prestige as so intimidating that Maya sought protection through alliance, offering his daughter in marriage.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Political influence and intimidation are highlighted, serving as a contrast to Dharmic kingship which wins allegiance through justice rather than fear.